Friday, January 19, 2024

Warriors and Survivors - 144

Children Cancer Stories by Rukh Yusuf - Blog # 144


I am Rukh Yusuf, Clinical Pharmacist, also specialized in Total Parenteral Nutrition and Bone Marrow Transplant. I have been working in the Pediatric Oncology unit of a public hospital for several years. The mission of this blog is to bring to you the real-life stories of child patients suffering from cancer. Cancer is still a difficult disease to handle and treat. However, when it strikes the children, some so young that they cannot even speak, their agony is beyond expression and words. Let us pray especially for children suffering from cancer for early and complete remission. May Allah shower His Merciful Blessings upon them. Aameen. 


Cancer in any age is a horrible news. Having a cancer in just two years age is devastating. This child’s story is stated by his mother who no doubt is a brave educated lady.

“As a parent, hearing the words "your child has cancer" is one of the most devastating things you can ever hear. Our world was shattered when our 2.5-year-old son was diagnosed with Pre B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).” Mother said.

It all started with flu-like symptoms that wouldn't go away. They took Abdul Rehman to his pediatrician, thinking it was just a virus. But when his bruises didn't improve, they knew something was wrong. A trip to the emergency room revealed that his white blood cell count was through the roof.

The next morning, they were in the oncologist's office, hearing the words that no parent ever wants to hear. Their sweet little boy had cancer.

The early days of treatment were a blur. Endless hospital visits, needle pricks, and medications. Watching Abdul Rehman go from an active, energetic toddler to a bald, tired, and sick child was heartbreaking.

“But we found strength in our son's resilience. Despite the pain and discomfort, he still smiled, played, and sang. He taught us to cherish every moment, even in the darkest times”, Mother said.

As they navigated the ups and downs of treatment, they learned to appreciate the small victories. A good blood test result, a successful round of chemo, a smile on Abdul Rehman’s face.

“We also learned to cherish the little things, like the sound of his laughter, the feel of his tiny hand in ours, and the way he would snuggle into our laps. We realized that life is precious and can change in an instant”, mother said.


The brave lady said, “The road ahead is long, but they're determined to fight alongside their little warrior. “We'll hold his hand through the pain and celebrate with him through the triumphs. We'll be there for every hospital visit, every medication, and every sleepless night.” 

“We'll also be there for every milestone, every smile, and every moment of joy. We'll cherish every second we have with him and make memories that will last a lifetime.” She added.

“Our story is just beginning, but we know that with love, hope, and medical care, we'll get through this together. We'll take it one day at a time, one treatment at a time, and one smile at a time. We've learned that life is unpredictable, but we're determined to make the most of every moment. We'll hold on to hope and never lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel.

Our son's diagnosis has taught us to appreciate the little things, to cherish every second, and to never take life for granted. We've been humbled by the outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and strangers.


We know that we're not alone in this journey. There are countless families who have walked this path before us and many who will follow after us. We draw strength from their stories, their courage, and their resilience. As we navigate the ups and downs of treatment, we'll continue to hold on to hope, love, and each other. We'll celebrate every small victory and milestone along the way.


And when the day comes that our son rings the bell signaling the end of treatment, we'll rejoice with tears of joy, gratitude, and relief. We'll hug him tight and whisper in his ear, "You did it, little one! You fought the good fight, and you won!"


Until then, we'll take it one day at a time, surrounded by love, hope, and the unwavering belief that our little warrior will conquer this beast called cancer.



Prayers for Abdul Rehman’s treatment success and complete recovery. Lots of prayers for his parents and her whole family who are fighting this battle together.  

Lots of prayers for all sick children to recover quickly and never experience their illnesses again. May they lead happy and healthy lives once more. Aameen.


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